As per Medical News Today, bad breath, known as halitosis, is believed to affect an estimated 25% of people. It can be embarrassing, even leading to anxiety and loss of self-confidence.
There are several possible causes of halitosis, but the primary ones include certain foods, health conditions, and habits of people like smoking, drinking, etc. However, for the majority of the population, it comes down to oral hygiene.
Did you know that, in most cases, identifying our bad breath’s root cause can put you a step ahead in treating this preventable condition?
Digging into the root causes of Bad Breath
Finding the possible reasons behind your bad breath is the first step toward successful treatment. Let us explore the main ones:
- Strong-smelling food like garlic, certain cheeses, fish, etc
- Poor oral hygiene
- Drinking less water
- Systemic diseases like diabetic acidosis or respiratory infection
- Gum diseases like periodontitis
- Dental cavity
Good Tips To Follow
Note down these expert tips to prevent bad breath issues:
- Brush your teeth after consuming strong-smelling foods like garlic or fish to prevent bad breath
- Aim to reduce the sugar content in your diet, as excessive sugar can accumulate a good number of bacteria that can contribute to bad odour and poor oral health
- Consciously consume food and drinks that are high in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin C
- Brush your teeth twice daily and clean your tongue thoroughly
- Floss at least once a day
- Schedule one annual dental health checkup
When Do I Need To See A Doctor?
If your bad breath persists, schedule a visit to your dentist. Your dentist will examine you and evaluate if a more serious condition is the root cause of your bad breath. If he suspects such a possibility, you may be referred to a physician to find the cause of the odour.
Conclusion:
Bad breath is a common condition, and sometimes people are not even aware they have it till they learn about it from a friend or a relative. However, it is not something for which you need to lose your self-esteem. It is treatable, and once you discover it, take timely action by consulting a medical practitioner and keep your breath smelling fresh again.
